Do You Use Adverbs in Your Copy?

in #writing4 years ago

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We need to talk... 🤔⠀

Are you using adverbs in your copy?

Stephen King said "adverbs are evil" and here's how they could be hurting your copy.⠀

But first, what are adverbs?

Adverbs are words that modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs. They usually end in "-ly". They are easy to spot in your text.

It could look something like, "She typed intently."⠀

This is lazy writing. You can easily tell your reader how she typed OR you could show them.

Try something like this, "She sat hunched over her computer, thoughts racing a mile a minute. Her fingers moved with intention as she hit every key with precision. Her ideas were becoming a reality."⠀

Sometimes adverbs should be avoided because they provide no additional value to the sentence.

Take this sentence for example, "We gladly offer you next day service." OR "We offer next day service."

Does "gladly" add any value to the sentence? It conveys the same message.

Instead, you can SHOW the reader why you're glad to do it.

"We enjoy giving you all the benefits of our service when you need it most." BOOM 💥.⠀

Removing adverbs from your copy will give you the opportunity to show, not tell, your reader the message you want them to receive.⠀

Have any more questions about writing or how to remove adverbs from your copy let me know! I'm always happy to help! 💕.

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